Key facts
UNE unit code: NEUR339
*You are viewing the 2026 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Trimester 1 - Online
- Yes
- No
- No
- 6
Unit information
This unit introduces you to the neurobiological factors and processes associated with autism.
You will explore a wide range of topics including genetic, physiological, developmental, hormonal and environmental factors, as well as cell and behavioural, cortical and cerebellar phenotypes.
Data from fMRI and EEG studies is used to illustrate the autistic brain and help you develop a further understanding of this complex and evolving field of study.
Additionally, you will gain an understanding of the procedures and efficacy of a range of neurobiological treatment models for autism.
Offerings
For further information about UNE's teaching periods, please go to Principal Dates.
| Teaching period | Mode/location |
|---|---|
| Trimester 1 | Online |
*Offering is subject to availability
Intensive schools
There are no intensive schools required for this unit.
Enrolment rules
Notes
Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.
Unit coordinator(s)
Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- demonstrate an understanding of the neurobiological factors and processes associated with autism;
- demonstrate an understanding of the interactions between genetic, physiological, hormonal, and developmental factors in the creation of autism behavioural phenotypes;
- demonstrate an understanding of the 'autism spectrum' via investigation of the key environmental and neurobiological processes and their interactions;
- demonstrate an understanding of the basic modalities (eg., fMRI, EEG) used to investigate the autistic brain; and
- demonstrate an understanding of the procedures and efficacy of a range of neurobiological treatment models for autism.
Assessment information
Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
| Title | Must Complete | Weight | Offerings | Assessment Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assessment 1 | Yes | 20% | All offerings | Clinical Case Study. 1000 word equivalent |
| Assessment 2 | Yes | 30% | All offerings | Literature review of neurobiological and environmental contributors to the autism phenotype. 2500 word equivalent |
| Interactive online presentation -Assurance Task | Yes | 50% | All offerings | Students will analyse the scientific research from EEG and fMRI studies to identify the major brain variations in autism and explain the influence of these variations on development of core symptoms used for diagnosis. Students will develop an intervention/support plan to address one cluster of core autism symptoms with reference to evidence-based treatment approaches. They will develop a PowerPoint presentation which summaries their key learnings, deliver a 10-minute lecture and answer 5 key questions based on the assessment criteria and issues specific to their topic. Student identification is verified at the commencement of the presentation. No. Words: 2000 |
Learning resources
Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Note: Students are expected to purchase prescribed material. Please note that textbook requirements may vary from one teaching period to the next.
Autism: A New Introduction to Psychological Theory and Current Debate
ISBN: 9781138106123
Fletcher-Watson, S. and Happe, F., 2nd ed. 2019
Text refers to: All offerings
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